Readers will discover a fascinating world, one that sprang from trials of the Great Depression and World War II to dizzying heights of economic prosperity and cutting-edge development before staggering from blows of nature and of man. They will follow in the footsteps of famed governors and United States senator; distinguished jurists; determined civil rights leaders; women who pioneered roles in commerce and public life; heroes and heroines who served their country with valor; innovative business executives; more than a few thieves, crooks, and scoundrels; and a whole county full of characters and just plain folks.